Bohol is a beautiful province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. This province is composed of the main island and 75 minor surrounding islands. The capital city of Bohol is Tagbilaran City.

Natural Attractions

Bohol is home to several natural attractions. The most famous of these are the Chocolate Hills, a group of more than a thousand hills spread across several towns in the province. These geological formations are named for their unique shape and color, which resemble chocolate mounds during the dry season.

Apart from the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is known for its pristine beaches, particularly on Panglao Island. Alona Beach is one of the most popular destinations, attracting both local and international tourists with its white sand and crystal-clear waters. The island also boasts some of the best diving spots in the country, where you can explore diverse marine life.

The province is also home to the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation of the Philippine Tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world. These nocturnal creatures are endemic to the region and can be viewed in their natural habitat within the sanctuary.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

Bohol is a place steeped in history and culture. You can find some of the oldest churches in the Philippines here, such as the Baclayon Church, which was built in the late 16th century. This church is one of the oldest standing churches in the Philippines that still retains its original Spanish colonial architecture.

Bohol also has a significant role in the history of the Philippines. The Blood Compact Shrine, located in the city of Tagbilaran, commemorates the first treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and Filipinos. This historical event, known as the Sandugo or "one blood", was symbolized by a blood compact between Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain.

The province is rich in cultural heritage as well. The traditional dances, music, and crafts are proudly preserved and promoted in the province. One of these cultural traditions is the Loboc River Cruise, where tourists are treated to a floating dining experience while local musicians and dancers perform traditional Filipino songs and dances.

Cuisine

Boholano cuisine is another reason tourists flock to the region. Must-try dishes include the peanut kiss, a peanut-based confectionery inspired by Hershey's Kisses; and the calamay, a sweet sticky dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar usually packaged in a coconut shell. Seafood is also a mainstay in Boholano cuisine given its geographical location.

In summary, Bohol is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical significance, cultural richness, and delightful culinary experiences. It offers a unique blend of experiences that make it a must-visit province in the Philippines.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Panglao Island

Morning:

• Arrive in Bohol via the Tagbilaran City airport.
• Transfer to your hotel in Panglao Island, settle in and have breakfast.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Hinagdanan Cave. This naturally lighted cavern houses a deep lagoon and many large stalactites and stalagmites.
• Head over to Alona Beach, a famous stretch of white sand on Panglao Island, for some leisure time.

Evening:

• Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants on Alona Beach.
• Rest and prepare for the next day's activities.

Day 2: Bohol Countryside Tour

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Chocolate Hills in Carmen. These are the most famous tourist attraction in Bohol.
• Stop by the Man-made Forest in Bilar, a 2-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees planted as a reforestation project.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Tarsier Conservation Area to see one of the smallest primates in the world in their natural habitat.
• Enjoy lunch at a floating restaurant while cruising along the Loboc River.
• After lunch, visit the historic Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.
• Head to the Blood Compact Shrine, a monument commemorating the Sandugo.

Evening:

• Return to your hotel in Panglao.
• Dine at your hotel or explore other local dining options in the area.

Day 3: Island Hopping and Departure

Morning:

• Go for an early morning island hopping tour. Visit Balicasag Island for some snorkeling and diving, then continue to the Virgin Island, a crescent-shaped sandbar visible only during low tide.
• Have a picnic lunch on the beach.

Afternoon:

• Return to your hotel and prepare for checkout.
• Depending on your flight schedule, explore local shops or relax at a café before heading to the airport.